Soccer goal that is movable and has improved assembly features

ABSTRACT

A movable soccer goal device and, more particularly, a movable goal assembly of tubular construction that presents an upright and inverted U-shaped opening to serve as the goal when assembled for the playing field. This has much improved net retention, safety anchors and counter-balanced design to reduce tip-overs, and a one piece front face to eliminate fasteners and potential injury. It is comprised of a front tubular face and has features to connect with the other assembly parts; two side tube assemblies; a soccer net with special retention features; anchoring; and a rear weighted bar with features to attach to the side tube assembles and the net. The goal device has unique features to improve the functionality of attaching the net as well as safety features for the tubing systems construction and anti-tipping features.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 61/431,759 filed Jan. 11, 2011 and entitled “Improved soccergoal that is movable and has improved assembly features”.

FIELD OF INVENTION

This invention is a special soccer goal device. The present devicerelates generally to movable and collapsible goal assemblies, and, moreparticularly, to a movable goal assembly of tubular construction thatpresents an upright and inverted U-shaped opening to serve as the goalwhen assembled for the playing field.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

None.

SEQUENCE LISTING OR PROGRAM

None.

BACKGROUND Field of Invention and Prior Art

A. Introduction of the Problems Addressed

The growing popularity of the sport of soccer, as well as other teamsports, such as roller hockey and lacrosse, has spurred considerableinterest in creating goals that improve upon the traditional version. Inthe United States, for instance, such games are considered among thefastest growing sports, particularly in regard to youth participation.However, the practice environment for such sports is not ideal.

The use of a soccer goal with the improvements described herein is notknown in the prior art. More specifically, soccer goals with improvednet retention, safer interconnects, safer hold down and goodanti-tip-over features and systems are heretofore not known to exist.Notwithstanding the myriad of designs encompassed by the crowded priorart which have been developed for the fulfillment of soccer goals, theimprovements shown here are unique and novel. Countless soccer goals,new and old, have make-shift ways to improve net retention of the netsand ways to improve the safety of the inter-connect features and nethold downs to the field. It is appropriate to note that duct tape,bailing wire, gravel bags and various stakes currently attempt to dowhat the present invention accomplishes with this improved concept anddesign.

B. Prior Art

In prior art, disclosures have been made in the field of the soccer goaland related improvements, but they did not show or anticipate theO'Scanaill device. For example, a U.S. Pat. No. 6,383,096 issued in 2002to Green showed a System and method for soccer net installation. Ittaught a strong and durable installation system and method that allowsoccer nets to be quickly installed and removed from a soccer goalframe. The system can be easily incorporated into new soccer goal framesduring manufacture, or retrofitted to existing frames. The system andmethod use one or more support cords attached to the top and side edgesof the soccer net, in addition to a small number of anchoring devicespermanently attached to the soccer goal frame in places that minimizeplayer contact but which are easily accessible to those installing orremoving the net. It employs an essential wire or cable through open nutfasteners welded to the front and side tubes. It does not anticipate theO'Scanaill device. Another device is shown in a U.S. Pat. No. 6,113,507issued in 2000 to Padilla which demonstrated a quick-attach net. It is asports net with an elastic cord element is incorporated in the outerperimeter of the generally rectangular net and the cord constricts theperimeter and forms an expandable opening. The net can be draped overthe goal frame and properly aligned with the frame such that itresiliently embraces the insides of the frame members so that the net isreleasably secured to the frame. It fails to secure the net as suredlyas the O'Scanaill device with its knots internal to the C-section of thenet fastener. A third net securement is shown in a U.S. Pat. No.6,142,892 issued to Dennis in 2000, where traditional cable ties areshown. It lacks the security and quick adding and removal such as shownin the O'Scanaill device.

Turning to goal anti-tip features and novelty, a U.S. Pat. No. 4,407,507was issued in 1983 to Caruso. The goal has a pair of stationary posts,and a pair of leg braces pivoted to the upper ends of the posts, onebrace for each post. The upper ends of the posts are connected byremovably connected cross pieces defining the upper boundary of thegoal. A net is wrapped about the posts and braces and supported on thetop of the posts is also provided such that the mouth of the goal isdefined between the leg braces. Shoes are provided for the bottom of theposts and braces, each shoe having a spike for insertion into the groundto erect the goal. The spikes are one alternative for the O'Scanailldevice. The preferred features for O'Scanaill has the counter-weightedmember and no spikes alone. Another U.S. Pat. No. 4,116,446 issued in1978 to Thompson was a Game net support apparatus. It taught anapparatus for supporting different nets for various sporting purposesincluding inter-engaging tubular rods which are arranged to interconnectand have ground engaging portions suitable to be useful for the severalfunctions. The frame of the net support structure includes a pair ofspaced apart, vertically extending posts; each of the posts is dividedinto a pair of telescoping sections. An upper horizontally extendingmulti-section member extends and connects the upper end of the verticalposts. A clip is provided to engage the frame support with resilientholding pressure for supporting a net on the frame.

Other goal devices shown in prior art are goals, such as the onedisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,244,213 (issued to Arnell in 1993), whichis lightweight and collapsible, yet has a pup-tent-like form and must bestaked into the ground to remain sufficiently stationary when hit by aball. Such goals are unsuitable for play during summer when the groundmay be hard. Other goals in the related art, such as the goal shown inthe U.S. Pat. No. 5,431,411 (issued 1995 to Padilla), present drawbackssuch as fragility at the side post joints due to lack of support frombraces that would give the structure a stable triangular profile. Somegoals in the related art are too bulky to carry easily, while othersinclude a multitude of complex, costly-to-produce components, orpotentially dangerous metal parts, such as wing nuts and bolts anddetent-and-notch formations, features that are not easily manipulated bysmall children. The O'Scanaill device alleviates these shortcomings withthe welded, smooth connections and pivotal support stays.

As far as is known, there is no other special soccer goal device forfully accomplish the objectives and goals of this present device. It isbelieved that this device is made with fewer parts and with improvedconfigurations and physical features to provide more functionality, whencompared to other currently utilized devices or methods, to a superiorsoccer goal for sporting events. The particular combinations ofmaterials and features are unique and novel. Theses combinations are notanticipated by prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The device herein is a much improved soccer goal device. Improvements innet retention, safety anchors to reduce tip-overs, and a one piece frontfaces to eliminate fasteners and potential injury points are allfeatured. The improved soccer goal device is comprised of a front facewith top and side tubes that are fastened in a fixed manner and hasfeatures to connect with the other assembly parts; two side tubeassemblies; a soccer net with special retention features; front groundanchors; and a rear bar with features to attach to the side tubeassembles and the net. The simple, tubular device has various uniquefeatures to improve the functionality of attaching the net as well assafety features for the tubing systems and the manner of attaching thedevice to the soccer field. A simple net retainer along the face andside tubes rigorously yet removably holds the net secure. Welded cornerseliminate tips of fasteners and loosening of fasteners that may create asafety hazard if not properly maintained. The front ground anchors screwinto the ground and lock the side tubes of the front directly to theground to help shift and lower the center of gravity and thus reducingthe likelihood of tipping the device when a player hangs from or bumpsthe top tube. All of the improved soccer goal device is made of adurable material and configured with simple assembly extension plugs onthe front tubes to interlock with the side tubes. Important to note isthat the features shown with the soccer goals e.g. improved netretention, safer interconnects, and safer hold down systems, may be usedand sold as independent improvements. Also, the same general design withsimilar components may be used with a goal device that is 7 Ft. by 21Ft.; 6 Ft. by 12 Ft.; 8 Ft. By 24 Ft.—all provided as examples and notas a limitation.

OBJECTIVES AND ADVANTAGES

There are several objectives and advantages of the improved soccer goaldevice. There are currently no known soccer goal devices that areeffective at providing the objectives of this invention in a simple andcommon sense manner.

The invention presented is an improved soccer goal device. Thisinvention is a combination of improvement to create a special soccergoal device. The present device relates generally to portable andcollapsible goal assemblies, and, more particularly, to a movable goalassembly of tubular construction that presents an upright and invertedU-shaped opening to serve as the goal mouth.

The following TABLE A summarizes various advantages and objectives ofthe improved soccer goal device. This list is exemplary and not limitingto the many advantages offered by this new device.

TABLE A Various Benefits, Advantages and Objectives This device: ITEMBENEFIT 1. Has a totally welded front face with a top bar and side bars2. Is easy to handle and install for organized and weekend events. 3.Requires simple tools for installation. 4. Is simple to manufacture. 5.Has a front set of safety ground anchors to hold the device and lowerthe center of gravity to reduce possible tip-over. 6. Has a rear backbar hold down and weighted back stays as anti-tipping features. 7. Has anew method to hold the net rigorously and securely to the front faceswith a unique “C” member that are elongated tubes with a slot and netstay securement - integral or a discrete piece fastened to bars

Noteworthy is that other advantages and additional features of theimproved soccer goal device will be more apparent from the accompanyingdrawings and from the full description of the device. For one skilled inthe art of soccer goal devices and their accessories, it is readilyunderstood that the features shown in the examples with this device arereadily adapted for improvement to other types of mechanisms and devicesfor use with goals and bet devices.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figures

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate preferred and alternativeembodiments for the special improved soccer goal device. The drawings,together with the summary description given above and a detaileddescription given below, serve to explain the principles of the improvedsoccer goal device. It is understood, however, that the device is notlimited to only the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

FIGS. 1 A through C are the general sketches of prototypes of theimproved soccer goal device.

FIGS. A through C are the general sketches of prototypes of the improvedsoccer goal device with the various components shown and marked.

FIG. 3 A through C show sketches of other components of the device 30.

FIGS. 4 A through 4 B show the general sketches of the improved soccergoal device components where the net is installed.

FIGS. 5 A through 5 E show additional sketches of the safety groundanchors.

FIGS. 6 A though 6 C show more sketches of the interconnects and the netreceiver on the prototype of the preferred embodiment of the improvedsoccer goal device.

FIGS. 7 A and 7 B show more of the sketches of the interconnects and thenet receiver on the prototype of the preferred embodiment of theimproved soccer goal device.

FIGS. 8 A through 8 D show the sketches of the prototype with the netbeing assembled to the improved soccer goal device.

FIGS. 9 A and 9 B show the sketches of installing the net to theframework.

FIGS. 10 A through 10 D are examples of drawings for making the improvedsoccer goal device.

FIGS. 11 A and 11 B are examples of more drawings for making theimproved soccer goal device.

FIGS. 12 A through 12 C are examples of drawings for making and usingthe improved soccer goal device.

FIGS. 13 A through 13 E are sketches of the box goal soccer devicedemonstrating components and features without the net attached.

FIGS. 14 A through 14 D are sketches of the box goal soccer device withthe net attached.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Reference Numerals

The following list refers to the drawings:

TABLE B Reference numbers. Ref # Description 30 General goal device 30APreferred Box goal 31 Front face structure - round, rectangular (31A) orsquare cross-sections 32 Top Bar (Round or rectangular) with net stays33 Essentially vertical Side Bars (Round or rectangular) with net stays33A Essentially horizontal side bottom bars 34 Net stays - open “C”construction of a tube with a slot external to tube 34A Net stays - open“C” construction of a tube with a slot internal to tube 35 Net staysecurement -discrete pieces fastened to bars or integral 35A 36 Tubestubs 37 Fastened corners - Welded or equal 37A Fastening means (gussetand securement means)Front Vertical Sides 33 to Horizontal bottom sides33A 38 Safety ground anchors - round for round tubes 38A Safety groundanchors - rectangular for rectangular tubes 40 Side tube assemblies 50Rear securement bar - back stay attachment bar 51 Securement bar meansfor fastening - “C” loop or equal 52 Front pivoted top stay netsecurement bar 53 Means to pivotally secure top stay 52 to front top bay32 53A Pivot arc top stays 52 and top bar 32 at means 53 54 Bottom backbar with counterweights 55 55 Counter weight - weighted matter such assand or lead or the like internal to the bar 54 [or as known to the art,sacks of liquid or solid placed on top of the bar 54] 58 Back and sideat bottom stay net securement bar 59 Means to pivotally secure bottomstay 58 to sides 33A 59A Pivot arc bottom stay 58 and side bar 33 atmeans 59 60 Soccer net with special fastening means 61 Integral knot insoccer net as fastening means 70 Device parts and assembly drawings 80Operator/installer 90 Ground/surface Note: for all tubular structures,they may be round tubing, rectangular tubing, square tubing or anotherstructural member - ovular, “I”, “W”, “L”, “C”, and “H” structuralshapes that accomplished the same function as described herein thespecification and shown in the drawings. Note: the same general designwith similar components may be used with a goal device that is 7 Ft. by21 Ft.; 6 Ft. by 12 Ft.; 8 Ft. By 24 Ft. - all as examples and not as alimitation. Note: the net stay system, the ground safety anchors and thewelded front face are distinct and may be provided as separate optionsto a goal device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The present invention presented is the improved soccer goal device. Thisdevice relates to a growing need for better means to secure the net,safely interconnect the tubes and structures, and to provide a means forholding the entire net device in place on the field. Specifically, thepresent device relates to soccer goals and more particularly pertains toa new or revamped goal for providing a secure net, a safeinterconnection of the structure (tubes) and a method or means to holdthe goal in place on the field. The preferred embodiment of the improvedsoccer goal device is comprised of a front face with top and side tubesthat are fasted in a fixed manner and has features to connect with theother assembly parts; two side tube assemblies; a soccer net withspecial retention features; front ground anchors; and a rear bar withfeatures to attach to the side tube assembles and the net. Thisinvention is a special soccer goal device. The present device relatesgenerally to portable, collapsible goal assemblies, and, moreparticularly, to a portable, foldable goal assembly of tubularconstruction that presents an upright and inverted U-shaped opening toserve as the goal mouth.

There is shown in FIGS. 1-14 a complete detailed and operativeembodiment of the improved soccer goal device, In the drawings andillustrations, one notes well that the FIGS. 1 through 7, FIGS. 10 and11, and FIGS. 13 and 14 show details of the special configuration. FIG.8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 12 helps to describe its use and operation.

The advantages of the improved soccer goal device are listed above inthe introduction. Succinctly the benefits for the device are:

-   -   This invention is a special soccer goal device. The present        device relates generally to portable, folding, collapsible goal        assemblies, and, more particularly, to a portable, foldable goal        assembly of tubular construction that presents an upright and        inverted U-shaped opening to serve as the goal mouth. Totally        welded front face with a top bar and side bars;    -   Is easy to handle and install for the user and the caretaker;    -   Requires simple tools for installation;    -   Is simple to manufacture;    -   Has alternatively a front set of safety ground anchors to hold        the device and lower the center of gravity to reduce possible        tip-over;    -   Has a rear back bar hold down and weighted back stays as        anti-tipping features; and    -   Has a new method to hold the net rigorously and securely to the        front faces with a unique “C”

The preferred embodiment of the improved soccer goal device is comprisedof a front face with top and side tubes that are fasted in a fixedmanner and has features to connect with the other assembly parts; twoside tube assemblies; a soccer net with special retention features;front ground anchors; and a rear bar with features to attach to the sidetube assembles and the net. This invention is a special soccer goaldevice. The present device relates generally to portable, folding, goalassemblies, and, more particularly, to a portable, foldable goalassembly of tubular construction that presents an upright and invertedU-shaped opening to serve as the goal mouth. Alternatives embodimentsare an improved and movable soccer box goal device made of durablematerials and comprised of: (a) top horizontal front bar with features[like with a net stay along the approximate length of the front baralong the net side and means to pivotally connect to at least one topstay]; (b) two essentially vertical side tubes, including an uppermostand lower most end, with features [like with a net stay along theapproximate length of each of the side bars along the net side]; (c)means for fastening the front bar with the side tubes at the uppermostend in a fixed manner with features to connect the front face to otherassembly parts; (d) two bottom side tube assemblies each with a frontend and a back end and each with features [like with a back and sidebottom stay net securement bar and means to pivotally connect bottomstay to bottom side tubes] whereby the two bottom side tubes essentiallyhorizontal and placed along a ground surface; (e) a means for fasteningthe lowermost end of each side tube with the front end of one of thebottom side bar at the front end in a fixed manner; (f) a bottom backbar with features [like with weighted material placed inside of the backbar]; (g) a means for fastening each of the back ends of the bottom sidebars with the opposite ends of the bottom back bar in a fixed manner;(h) a soccer net with special retention features; and (i) an optionalauxiliary front ground anchors wherein the goal device includes a simplenet retainer along the face and side tubes that rigorously yet removablyholds the net secure; welded corners to eliminate the tips of fastenersand loosening of fasteners that may create a safety hazard if notproperly maintained; and counter weighted back bar and/or auxiliaryfront ground anchors that screw into the ground and lock the side tubesof the front face directly to the ground to help shift and lower thecenter of gravity and thus reducing the likelihood of tipping the devicewhen a player hangs from or bumps the top tube.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate a preferred embodiment of theimproved soccer goal device. The drawings, together with the summarydescription given above and a detailed description given below, serve toexplain the principles of the improved soccer goal device. It isunderstood, however, that the device is not limited to only the precisearrangements and instrumentalities shown.

FIGS. 1 A through C are the general sketches of prototypes of theimproved soccer goal device 30. Three different sketches of the deviceare shown.

FIGS. 2 A through C are the general sketches of prototypes of theimproved soccer goal device 30 with the various components shown andmarked. Here is shown the device 30 with the front face structure 31.The structure 31 consists of the top bar or rail 32 and two side bars33. All three, the top 32 and two side bars 33 have the net stays 34which are long open “C” channels along the net side (opposite the fieldface). The Figs. also show the side tube assemblies 40 that connectrigidly to the front face assembly 31 inside the tube stubs 36. The net60 is shown attached to the whole front face by means of the open netsays 34. In FIGS. 2 A and 2 C, the means for fastening 37 isdemonstrated. Here the means is illustrates as a full weldment. This isfor example and not limitation of the device. The manner of stuffing thenet 60 into the stays 34 will be explained later.

FIGS. 3 A through C show sketches of other components of the device 30.Here in FIG. 3 A the typical round tube side bar 33 is shown. In FIG. 3B the typical round tube top bar 32 is shown. In FIG. 3 C the typicalFlat tube top bar 32 is shown. These flat tubes provide a variance ofhaving a flat front face structure 31 as opposed the round tube sectionsshown in several of the sketches. The scope and spirit of this inventionanticipates various bar cross-sections including, but not limited to theround and rectangular tubes shown in the drawings and sketches. FIG. 3 Dshows all the current types of tubes in one figure.

FIGS. 4 A through 4 B show the general sketches of the improved soccergoal device 30 components where the net 60 is installed. Here the net 60is shown inserted into the open “C” net stays 34 along the front face 31tubes 32, 33. One may see the net stay securement 35 that is eitherintegral (preferred) to the tubes or separate and fastened, as analternative method. This net 60 insertion into the net stays 34 isusable with the new device 30. The same concept may be added on as anaddition to existing net faces 31 by connecting and fastening an open“C” net stay 34 along the net side of the existing faces 31 and by othermeans to fasten.

The durable materials anticipated for these devices is from a largelist. The preferred material for the tubular structure and the safetyground anchors is a metal—preferably a light yet durable material. Inaddition to steel and other alloys, an aluminum structure isanticipated. These metals may have surface finishes and treatments suchas being painted, plated or have another finishing such as powder coatand the like. In addition, various composite materials and plasticreinforced materials may be appropriate and still be anticipated withinthe spirit of the invention. These are shown as examples and notlimitations for the materials used.

FIGS. 5 A through 5 E show additional sketches of the safety groundanchors 38, 38A. These anchors are place into the ground by auguring orscrewing them down. Then the vertical side bars 33 are placed over theground anchor 38, 38A that extends up from the ground. The round safetyground anchors 38 are placed interior to the circular tubes 33. Theauger on a flat plate 38A is augured into the ground. Then the anchor38A is placed interior to the rectangular tube side bars 33. This isfurther shown in the drawings, below.

FIGS. 6 A though 6 C show more sketches of the inter connects and thenet receiver 34 on the prototype of the preferred embodiment of theimproved soccer goal device 30. The net stays 34 that run along the topbar 32 and sidebars 33 are shown without the net 60. Also one may seethe special net stay securement (integral to the face structure 31 orindividual piece). The tube stubs 36 are also shown integral to thefront face 31.

FIGS. 7 A and 7 B show more of the sketches of the inter-connects andthe net receiver 34 on the prototype of the preferred embodiment of theimproved soccer goal device 30. These sketches and the components shownhave the same description and discussed in the previous paragraph andwith FIG. 6.

FIGS. 8 A through 8 D and FIGS. 9 A and 9 B show the use andinstallation and are discussed below.

FIGS. 10 A through 10 D are examples of drawings for making the improvedsoccer goal device. Here the Front drawing FIG. 10 B for the device 30are depicted. The front face structure 31 is shown as well as itscomponents—the side bars 33 and the top bar 32. A Cross Section View A-Ais shown in FIG. 10 A. Here the tube with the net stay open “C” isshown. This section is appropriate for the top bar 32 and the side bars33 to show the unique net stay 34. The other FIGS. 10 C and 10 D are topand side views of the front face structure 31.

FIGS. 11 A and 11 B are examples of more drawings for making theimproved soccer goal device. Here the back stay attachment bar 50 isshown with the “C” interconnects that attach the back stay bar 50 to theside rails 40. One notes that the back car 50 is sometimes workedthrough the net 60 (not shown) by alternating through the strands ofnet. This is to keep an active ball from rolling through the rear of thegoal 30.

FIGS. 12 A through 12 C are examples of drawings for making and usingthe improved soccer goal device. This is described under the operationsection, below.

FIGS. 13 A through 13 E are sketches of the alternative box goal soccerdevice 30A demonstrating components and features without the netattached. In FIG. 13 A is a generally TOP view of the box goal 30A withthe top front bar 32 shown with the features of the front pivoted topstays 52 in essentially 3 places (more or less). Each of these top stays52 are attached to the front bar 32 with a securement means 53 topivotally attach the stays 52 along the top 32 in the general arc 53A.The fastening means 37A or gusset like member attaches the vertical sidebar 33 (hidden) to the bottom side bar 33A (essentially horizontal)preferably by a smooth securement manner 37 such as welds, ground andsurface finished) or round headed rivets, acorn nuts and bolts or thelike, to ensure rounded or smooth joints (no pinch points or cuttingedges). The bars or tubes 32,33,33A,54 may be powder coated, plated orpainted (for metals—steel, aluminum, stainless, etc.) or made of acomposite corrosion free material. At the opposite end of the front bar32 and along the ground 90 is the bottom side bars 33A attachedessentially at right angles to the bottom back bar 54 with counterweights 55. The side bar 33A and back bar 54 are secured at the cornersby a means 37 such as welding or equal as explained above. Interior yetparallel to the bottom side bar 33A and bottom back bar 54 is a back andside bottom net stay 58 that is pivotally secured by a means 59 to thevertical front side bars 33. When needed or desired the bottom net stay58 can pivot along arc 59A to clear the stay 58 from the ground 90 formowing, storage when not in use or security. In either positionup—vertical or on the ground—horizontal, the bottom stay 58 may besecured by cordage or lockable cables or chains.

FIG. 13B is the SIDE view and clearly shows the pivot arc 59A and thegusset means 37A as just described. FIGS. 13 C and 13 D show the viewfrom the BACK and FRONT, respectively. Note well the net stays open “C”34, 34A. These 34, 34A are depicted up close in FIG. 13 E. As welldepicted in this close-up is the back bottom bar 54 and counter weightsfill 55—such as sand, lead or steel shot—to be a counter weight. Thecounter weight 55 or some other means (sand bags, water bags etc.) arevery significant additions to the modern soccer goals 30A.

This is a feature and method to counter the tipping of the goal device30A to prevent injury, or even tragically death. This is required underthe American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard F2673-08for tip-resistant movable soccer goals Section 20. This standardcommonly known and legislated as Zach's law and mandates that under thisTip-resistant feature, no commercial dealer, manufacturer, importer,distributor, wholesaler, or retailer may manufacture, re-manufacture,retrofit, distribute, sell at wholesale or retail, contract to sell orresell, lease, or sublet, or otherwise place in the stream of commerce,a movable soccer goal that is not tip-resistant.

The above description along with the description in FIG. 14 regardingthe soccer net 60 results in an improved and movable soccer box goaldevice 30A made of durable materials and comprised of: (a) tophorizontal front bar 32 with features [like with a net stay 52 along theapproximate length of the front bar along the net side and means 53 topivotally connect to at least one top stay]; (b) two essentiallyvertical side tubes, including an uppermost and lower most end, withfeatures [like with a net stay along the approximate length of each ofthe side bars along the net side]; (c) means 37 for fastening the frontbar 32 with the side tubes 33 at the uppermost end in a fixed mannerwith features to connect the front face to other assembly parts; (d) twobottom side tube assemblies 33A each with a front end and a back end andeach with features [like with a back and side bottom stay net securementbar 58 and means 59 to pivotally connect bottom stay to bottom sidetubes] whereby the two bottom side tubes essentially horizontal andplaced along a ground surface; (e) a means for fastening the lowermostend of each side tube with the front end of one of the bottom side barat the front end in a fixed manner; (f) a bottom back bar with features[like with weighted material placed inside of the back bar]; (g) a meansfor fastening each of the back ends of the bottom side bars with theopposite ends of the bottom back bar in a fixed manner; (h) a soccer netwith special retention features; and (i) an optional auxiliary frontground anchors wherein the goal device includes a simple net retaineralong the face and side tubes that rigorously yet removably holds thenet secure; welded corners to eliminate the tips of fasteners andloosening of fasteners that may create a safety hazard if not properlymaintained; and counter weighted back bar and/or auxiliary front groundanchors that screw into the ground and lock the side tubes of the frontface directly to the ground to help shift and lower the center ofgravity and thus reducing the likelihood of tipping the device when aplayer hangs from or bumps the top tube.

FIGS. 14 A through 14 D are sketches—from the TOP, SIDE, FRONT andBACK—of the box goal soccer device 30A with the net 60 attached to thestructures shown in FIGS. 13 A through 13 D.

All of the details mentioned here are exemplary and not limiting. Othercomponents specific to describing the improved soccer goal device may beadded, as a person having ordinary skill in the field of soccer goalsand other sporting equipment devices in the sporting industry wellappreciates. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art thatvarious modifications and variations can be made in the goal assembly ofthe present invention and in construction of the goal assembly withoutdeparting from the scope or spirit of the invention. As an example,various materials of construction may be used for present invention, aslong as the materials are lightweight. As another example, variousdimensions may be employed for the goal assembly and its components,depending upon the use of the goal assembly (e.g., goal assembly may belarger if used for soccer than if used for hockey). Other embodiments ofthe invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art fromconsideration of the specification and practice of the inventiondisclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples beconsidered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of theinvention being indicated by the following claims.

Operation of the Preferred Embodiment

The preferred embodiment of the improved soccer goal device has beendescribed in detail above. The manner of how the device operates isdescribed below. A person having ordinary skill in the field of soccergoals and other sporting equipment and related devices in the sportingindustry, will note that the description above and the operationdescribed here must be taken together to fully illustrate the concept ofthe special device 30.

FIGS. 8 A through 8 D show the sketches of the prototype unit 30 withthe net 60 being assembled to the improved soccer goal device. Here themanners as to how to feed the net 60 through the net stays 34 are shown.The large knots of the net 60 are individually pushed through the slotof the net stay 34. After the net is located across the top rail 32 ofthe front face 31, then the net 60 is fed down through the net stays 34on the side rails 33. The net is balanced lengthwise across the top 32and side 33 bars. Finally, the net 60 is secured to the net securement35. This net securement 35A may be integrally part of the top bar 32 asshown in FIGS. 8 C and 8 D or an added feature discrete securement 35 asshown in FIGS. 8 A and 8 B. It is important for one to note is that theentire front face design with the net stays open “C” 34 and netsecurement 35 may be retrofitted to existing goals to gain the muchimproved net securing for existing soccer goals. The preferredembodiment has the integral securement 35A as part of the top bar 32.

FIGS. 9 A and 9 B show the sketches of persons 80 installing the net 60to the face framework 31. This may be done by one or two operators 80.As shown they feed the net 60 into the front face 31 as described in theparagraph directly above [0043] and the one directly following [0045].

FIGS. 12 A through 12 C are examples of drawings for making and usingthe improved soccer goal device 30. In the drawings in FIG. 12, themethod and steps to install the net 60 onto the front face 31 isdemonstrated. FIG. 12 B is a Top View with the top bar 32 and the netstays 34 shown. FIG. 12 A is a View from the backside of the device 30of the net 60 installed to the front 31 of the top bar 32 and side bars33 by means of the net 60 stuffed into the open “C” slot of the netstays 34. This is best described in the following Table.

STEP Description of Action 1 Operator 80 Stands on the front side (fieldside) of the soccer goal looking towards the back side (net side) of thegoal device 30. 2 Feed corner of the net 60 through the slotted pipe ofthe open “C” net stay 34 on the top face bar 32 going from left toright. 3 When the net 60 is fed through the stay, then turn downward andfeed the net 60 through the net stay 34 of the first (right) side bar33. 4 With the excess net at the opposite end, feed the net through thenet stay 34 of the second (left) side bar 33. 5 Balance the length ofthe net between the side bars 33. 6 Engage the net 60 into the staysecurement 35 lock at each end of the top face bar 32. 7 (Optional)Thread the net 60 through the back stay bar 50 8 Attach back stay bar 50to the side rails 40 by means of the “C” attachment 51.

The preferred embodiment of the improved soccer goal device 30 may bemade in various ways and still be within the spirit and scope of theinvention. One may see that the prototype may be stamped/cut fromstructural pieces or from a formable material, then bent or formed tothe desired shape. One skilled in manufacturing devices and productssimilar to the device 30 has a full appreciation of the plethora ofprocesses and materials that may be used to manufacture the improvedsoccer goal device 30. As an example and not as a limitation forproducing such a device 30, one skilled in manufacturing appreciatesthat the device 31 may be stamped from metal or a composite and thenformed or molded into the desired configuration. The sides and top maybe contiguous in sheet form but some joining or means to secure mayrequire a welding (metals, plastic), adhesive (plastic, composites), ora special securing means such as a friction weld (plastic), heat weld,or other fastening means. Similarly, a composited or plastic materialmight be molded or a metal may be cast. As a further example and not asa limitation the device may be made from a plastic or composite plasticof various types. The net may be of various material such as (forexample and not as a limitation) a polyester, poly carbonate, estralon,co-polyesters and the like may be suitable. Equally an hemp and nylonmay be used. Metals (such as stainless steel, aluminum, steel alloys,etc.) may be stamped and formed or cast (metals like aluminum, potmetals, etc.) to make many component parts of the device 30. Any or allmay have surface finished such as chrome, powdered materials paint andthe like. Another material could be molded plastics or composites. Anydurable material used of configuration would have rounded/safe edges.

With the above description or the product device and method to use, itis to be understood that the improved soccer goal device is not to belimited to only the disclosed embodiment. The described features of thespecial device 31 are intended to cover various modifications andequivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of thedescription.

1. An improved and movable soccer goal device comprised of durablematerials and (a) Configured with a front face with a top tube and twoside tubes, all of the tubes with features; (b) A means for fasteningthe tubes in a fixed manner with features to connect the front face toother assembly parts; (c) Two side tube assemblies; (d) a soccer netwith special retention features; (e) front ground anchors; and (f) arear bar with features to attach to the side tube assembles and the net.wherein the goal device includes a simple net retainer along the faceand side tubes that rigorously yet removably holds the net secure;welded corners to eliminate the tips of fasteners and loosening offasteners that may create a safety hazard if not properly maintained;and front ground anchors that screw into the ground and lock the sidetubes of the front face directly to the ground to help shift and lowerthe center of gravity and thus reducing the likelihood of tipping thedevice when a player hangs from or bumps the top tube.
 2. The device inclaim 1 wherein the structural cross section of the tubular structuresis selected from the group consisting of circular; rectangular; square;ovular; “I”, “W”, “L”, “C”, and “H” structural shapes.
 3. The deviceaccording to claim 1 wherein the durable materials for tubularstructures anticipated for these devices is selected from the groupconsisting of metals, aluminum, steel, steel alloy, metals with powdercoated finishes, painted metals, plated metals, composite materials andhigh strength, reinforced plastic materials.
 4. The device according toclaim 1 wherein the durable materials for the net anticipated for thesedevices is selected from the group consisting of The net may be of apolyester, poly carbonate, estralon, co-polyesters, hemp and nylonmaterials.
 5. An improved and movable soccer box goal device made ofdurable materials and comprised of: (a) A top horizontal front bar withfeatures; (b) Two essentially vertical side tubes, each including anuppermost and lower most end, with features; (c) A means for fasteningthe front bar with the side tubes at the uppermost end in a fixed mannerwith features to connect the front face to other assembly parts; (d) Twobottom side tube assemblies each with a front end and a back end andeach with features whereby the two bottom side tubes essentiallyhorizontal and placed along a ground surface; (e) A means for fasteningthe lowermost end of each side tube with the front end of one of thebottom side bar at the front end in a fixed manner; (f) A bottom backbar with features; (g) A means for fastening each of the back ends ofthe bottom side bars with the opposite ends of the bottom back bar in afixed manner; and (h) a soccer net with special retention featureswherein the goal device includes a simple net retainer along the faceand side tubes that rigorously yet removably holds the net secure;welded corners to eliminate the tips of fasteners and loosening offasteners that may create a safety hazard if not properly maintained;and counter weighted back bar reducing the likelihood of tipping thedevice when a player hangs from or bumps the top tube.
 6. The deviceaccording to claim 5 including a pair of front ground anchors Whereinthe auxiliary front ground anchors that screw into the ground and lockthe side tubes of the front face directly to the ground to help shiftand lower the center of gravity and thus resist tipping of the device.7. The device according to claim 5 wherein the features of the tophorizontal front bar with features are a net stay along the approximatelength of the front bar along a net side and a means to pivotallyconnect to at least one top stay
 8. The device according to claim 5wherein the features of the vertical side tubes are a net stay along theapproximate length of each of the side bars along the net side.
 9. Thedevice according to claim 5 wherein the features of the two bottom sidetube assemblies are a back and side bottom stay net securement bar and ameans to pivotally connect bottom stay to bottom side tubes.
 10. Thedevice according to claim 5 wherein the features of the bottom back barare weighted material placed inside of the back bar.
 11. An improved andmovable soccer box goal device made of durable materials and comprisedof: (a) A top horizontal front bar with a net stay along the approximatelength of both the front bar at a net side and means to pivotallyconnect to at least one top stay; (b) two essentially vertical sidetubes, each including an uppermost and lower most end, with a net stayalong the approximate length of each of the side bars along the netside; (c) A means for fastening the front bar with the side tubes at theuppermost end in a fixed manner with features to connect the front faceto other assembly parts; (d) Two bottom side tube assemblies each with afront end and a back end and each with a back and side bottom stay netsecurement bar and means to pivotally connect bottom stay to bottom sidetubes whereby the two bottom side tubes essentially horizontal andplaced along a ground surface; (e) A means for fastening the lowermostend of each side tube with the front end of one of the bottom side barat the front end in a fixed manner; (f) A bottom back bar with weightedmaterial placed inside of the back bar; (g) A means for fastening eachof the back ends of the bottom side bars with the opposite ends of thebottom back bar in a fixed manner; and (h) a soccer net with specialretention features wherein the goal device includes a simple netretainer along the face and side tubes that rigorously yet removablyholds the net secure; welded corners to eliminate the tips of fastenersand loosening of fasteners that may create a safety hazard if notproperly maintained; and counter weighted back bar reducing thelikelihood of tipping the device when a player hangs from or bumps thetop tube.
 12. The device according to claim 11 including a pair of frontground anchors Wherein the auxiliary front ground anchors that screwinto the ground and lock the side tubes of the front face directly tothe ground to help shift and lower the center of gravity and thus resisttipping of the device.